On the Definition of the Concepts of "Ethnography" and "Ethnology"

Abstract

In the context of globalization, socio-political changes taking place in society, a huge interest in various fields of knowledge, including Ethnography, has increased. The article deals with the ethnographic vocabulary within the framework of the specifics of material and spiritual culture. The problem lies in the study of the functioning of ethnographic terms, their features, role and meaning in the communication process.

In the context of globalization and socio-political transformations, the study of ethnography and ethnology has gained increasing relevance, particularly in understanding the relationship between language, culture, and national identity. This article examines the conceptual distinctions between ethnography and ethnology, analyzing their historical development and terminological evolution. Despite their extensive scholarly discussion, a significant knowledge gap remains in defining ethnographic vocabulary and its role in documenting material and spiritual culture. The study employs a qualitative research approach, drawing on linguistic and ethnographic sources to explore the classification, function, and transmission of ethnographic terms. The findings highlight the dynamic nature of ethnographic vocabulary, emphasizing its role in preserving cultural heritage and reflecting societal changes. The results suggest that interdisciplinary research integrating ethnography, linguistics, and lexicography is essential for refining theoretical frameworks and compiling specialized dictionaries. The implications of this study extend to fields such as ethnolinguistics, folklore studies, and cultural anthropology, reinforcing the need for continuous documentation and analysis of evolving cultural lexicons. Further research should focus on the intersection of ethnographic terminology with modern linguistic processes, digital lexicography, and cross-cultural communication to enhance our understanding of language as a repository of cultural memory.